Description

Zinacef is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic containing cefuroxime sodium. It is administered via intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) routes to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including pneumonia, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and as prophylaxis during surgical procedures.

Prescription

Zinacef is a prescription-only medicine and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. ​

Therapeutic Category

• Pharmacological Class: Second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic

• ATC Code: J01DC02 ​

Active Ingredients/Composition

Each vial contains cefuroxime sodium, equivalent to:

• 250 mg cefuroxime

• 750 mg cefuroxime

• 1.5 g cefuroxime​

• There are no additional active ingredients. ​

Vitamins

Zinacef does not contain any vitamins.​

Minerals

Zinacef does not contain any minerals.​

Variant

Available as a powder for solution for injection or infusion in vials of:

• 250 mg

• 750 mg

• 1.5 g​
  

Also available in pharmacy bulk vials (e.g., 7.5 g) for hospital use. ​

Consume Type

Administered parenterally via:

• Intravenous (IV) injection or infusion

• Intramuscular (IM) injection​
  

Directions/Usage

• Dosage: Varies based on infection type and severity. For example:
  • 750 mg every 8 hours for community-acquired pneumonia

  • 1.5 g every 8 hours for severe infections

  • 1.5 g at induction of anesthesia for surgical prophylaxis

• Preparation: Reconstitute the powder with sterile water for injection.

• Administration: Administer immediately after preparation.​
  

Common Side Effects

• Pain at the injection site

• Nausea and vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching)

• Rarely, Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea
  

Package Type

Supplied in colorless glass vials with a bromobutyl rubber plug and aluminum overseal, containing:

• 250 mg, 750 mg, or 1.5 g of cefuroxime sodium powder​

Vials may be packaged individually or in packs. ​

Storage Advice

• Dry Powder: Store below 25°C and protect from light.

• Reconstituted Solution:
  • Use within 6 hours if kept below 25°C.

  • Use within 48 hours if refrigerated at 2–8°C.
    

Safety Advice

• Monitor for signs of allergic reactions, especially in patients with a history of beta-lactam allergy.

• Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; dosage adjustment may be necessary.

• Not recommended for mixing with aminoglycoside antibiotics in the same syringe or infusion fluid.

Product Substitutes

Alternative brands containing cefuroxime include:

• Ceftin (oral form)

• Supacef (injection)

• Xorimax

• Zinnat​
  

Note: Availability may vary by country. 

Manufacturer/Marketer

• Manufacturer: GlaxoSmithKline Manufacturing S.p.A., Parma, Italy

• Marketing Authorization Holder: Glaxo Operations UK Limited, 980 Great West Road, Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 9GS, UK 

Country of Origin

Italy​